Fax Machines Alternative ways to recycle Illegal in Garbage & Drains Donate or Sell if Usable Electronics Recycling Drop-Off If the item is still in working, usable condition, consider donating it. To find local donation locations, check out the NYS Reuse Locator Map. If the item no longer works, it should be recycled as E-waste. Find more information on E-waste recycling and items accepted using the Electronics Recycling Locator Map. Interested in learning more about Electronics recycling? Check out this post on Recycle Right New York’s Instagram. Never Throw in the Garbage Fax machines are made with metals that are toxic to the environment when not properly processed, so don’t throw them in the garbage. Alternative Ways to Recycle Staples' Take Back Program Staples offers free, in-store recycling for unwanted electronics, including fax machines, desktop computers, tablets, printers and other electronics. Locate your nearest Staples. Canon Consumer Products Recycling Program Canon offers a recycling program for certain consumer products like fax machines. Check if they can repair your item here or if they can recycle your item here. Ways to Reduce Send a Fax Electronically Instead of buying a fax machine, send and receive your faxes online with a service like MyFax or eFax for a monthly fee. Opt Out of Junk Faxes If you receive junk faxes from solicitors, opt out of receiving them. By law, companies that send junk faxes must include contact information so the recipient can opt out. To learn more, check out this FCC guide. Use Both Sides of the Paper Create a pile of paper that’s been used on one side next to your fax machine and use it to send faxes. Buy Used or High Quality Look into purchasing a used fax machine that’s in good condition, or buy a fax machine that’s high quality and will last a long time. Both of these options are better for the environment. Did You Know? The Problem of E-Waste E-waste is a dangerous business in India and China, where e-waste recycling plants release toxic chemicals into the air and cause health problems for recycling workers. To learn more about e-waste, check out The Story of Stuff Project.